Motorola Moto G 5G vs Apple iPhone 13 - Detailed Phone Comparison

Detailed Comparison

Specification

General

Launch Date December 7, 2020 September 24, 2021
Release Year 2020 2021

Physical

Volume 125.14 cm³ 80.77 cm³
Screen Size to Weight Ratio 3.16 "/g 3.51 "/g
Weight 212 g 174 g
Height 166.1 mm 146.7 mm
Width 76.1 mm 71.5 mm
Thickness 9.9 mm 7.7 mm
Foldable Design No No
Available Colors
  • Frosted Silver
  • Volcanic Gray
  • Red
  • Blue
  • Green
  • Pink
  • Starlight
  • Midnight

Display

Screen Size 6.7 " 6.1 "
Resolution 1080 x 2400 1170 x 2532
Aspect Ratio 20:9 19.5:9
Screen-to-Body Ratio 85.7 % 87.1 %
Pixel Density 393 PPI 460 PPI
Refresh Rate N/A N/A
Typical Brightness N/A N/A
HBM Brightness N/A 800 nits
Peak Brightness N/A 1200 nits

Hardware

Battery Capacity per Screen Area 111.38 mAh/in² 87.07 mAh/in²
Battery Density 39.96 mAh/cm³ 40.12 mAh/cm³
Battery Capacity 5000 mAh 3240 mAh
NFC Support Yes Yes
Chipset Qualcomm SM7225 Snapdragon 750G 5G (8 nm) Apple A15 Bionic (5 nm)
CPU Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Kryo 570 & 6x1.8 GHz Kryo 570) Hexa-core (2x3.23 GHz Avalanche + 4x1.82 GHz Blizzard)
GPU Adreno 619 Apple GPU (4-core graphics)

Connectivity

USB Version 2.0 2.0
OTG Support
DisplayPort
DisplayPort Version N/A N/A
USB Features USB Type-C 2.0 Lightning 2.0

Software

Operating System Android iOS
Initial OS Version 10 15
Maximum OS Version 18

Comparison Summary

1. Specifications Comparison

Here's a detailed comparison of the Motorola Moto G 5G and the Apple iPhone 13, focusing on the practical implications of their specifications:

Design

FeatureMotorola Moto G 5GApple iPhone 13Practical Impact
Dimensions166.1 x 76.1 x 9.9 mm146.7 x 71.5 x 7.7 mmThe Moto G 5G is noticeably larger and thicker, making the iPhone 13 more pocketable and comfortable for one-handed use.
Weight212g174gThe iPhone 13 is significantly lighter, enhancing portability and reducing fatigue during extended use.
BuildUnknownUnknownBoth phones have unknown screen protection. Actual feel will vary based on materials used.

Display

FeatureMotorola Moto G 5GApple iPhone 13Practical Impact
Size6.7"6.1"The Moto G 5G offers a larger screen, which is better for media consumption and multitasking. The iPhone 13 is more compact and easier to handle.
Resolution1080x24001170x2532The iPhone 13 has a slightly sharper display, resulting in finer details and text clarity.
Pixel Density (PPI)393460The iPhone 13's higher PPI makes the display noticeably sharper and clearer, reducing pixel visibility for a smoother look.
TechnologyIPS LCDOLEDThe iPhone 13's OLED display offers superior contrast, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors, leading to a more immersive viewing experience.
Refresh Rate60Hz60HzBoth have standard 60Hz refresh rates, so scrolling and animations appear equally smooth.
Brightness0 nits1200 nitsThe iPhone 13 is dramatically brighter, making it far more usable under direct sunlight. The Moto G 5G's lack of brightness specification is a disadvantage.

Performance

FeatureMotorola Moto G 5GApple iPhone 13Practical Impact
ChipsetQualcomm SM7225 Snapdragon 750G (8 nm)Apple A15 Bionic (5 nm)The iPhone 13's chipset is significantly more powerful, resulting in faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better performance in demanding games.
AnTuTu Score390,0001,256,049The iPhone 13 performs much faster in benchmarks, translating to a smoother and more responsive user experience overall.
GPUAdreno 619Apple GPU (4-core)The iPhone 13's GPU is considerably more powerful, enabling higher frame rates and better graphics in games and other GPU-intensive applications.

Camera

FeatureMotorola Moto G 5GApple iPhone 13Practical Impact
Main Camera48MP, f/1.7, 0.8µm pixel size12MP, f/1.6, 1.7µm pixel size, Sony IMX603The iPhone 13 has larger pixels, capturing more light and offering better low-light performance despite the lower resolution.
Selfie Camera16MP, f/2.2, 1.0µm pixel size12MP, f/2.2, Sony IMX514, unknown pixel sizeThe Moto G 5G has slightly higher resolution for selfies, however the impact is less substantial compared to the rear camera differences.
Wide Angle8MP, f/2.2, 1.12µm pixel size12MP, f/2.4, 1/2.55" sensor, 1.4µm pixel size, Sony IMX372The iPhone 13's wide-angle lens is likely to capture higher quality images due to the larger sensor size and pixel size, despite a slightly narrower aperture.
Macro Lens2MP, f/2.4, 1.75µm pixel sizeN/AThe Moto G 5G has a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots, a feature missing on the iPhone 13.
VideoUp to 4K@30fps, EIS; 1080p@60fps, EISUp to 4K@60fps HDR, OIS and Stereo SoundThe iPhone 13 offers significantly superior video capabilities, including higher frame rates, HDR, optical stabilization (OIS) and stereo sound, and higher slow-motion frame rate with its high-speed video options.
FeaturesDigital Zoom, Triple Camera, EIS, PDAF, LAF, HDRDigital Zoom, Dual Camera, OIS, HDR, Manual Focus, PDAFThe Moto G 5G has a triple camera and laser autofocus while iPhone has optical stabilization.

Battery

FeatureMotorola Moto G 5GApple iPhone 13Practical Impact
Capacity5000 mAh3240 mAhThe Moto G 5G has a significantly larger battery, potentially offering much better battery life, depending on usage patterns.
Charging20W fast charging20W fast chargingBoth offer similar fast-charging capabilities, although the overall charging time will likely vary due to the different battery capacities.
Wireless ChargingNone15W MagSafe, 7.5W QiThe iPhone 13 offers versatile wireless charging options, including MagSafe, which is not available on the Moto G 5G.
RemovableNon-removableNon-removableNeither phone has a removable battery.

Software

FeatureMotorola Moto G 5GApple iPhone 13Practical Impact
OSAndroid 10iOS 15 (up to 18)The iPhone 13 offers a more polished and consistent user experience with longer software update support. The Moto G 5G may have a simpler and more customizable software experience.

Connectivity

FeatureMotorola Moto G 5GApple iPhone 13Practical Impact
Wi-FiWi-Fi 5Wi-Fi 6The iPhone 13 supports faster and more efficient Wi-Fi 6, offering better performance in congested networks and future compatibility.
Bluetooth5.15.0The Moto G 5G features a newer Bluetooth version for potentially better connectivity.
GPSGPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, SUPL, GalileoGPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, QZSS, GalileoThe iPhone 13 supports more satellite systems, potentially offering slightly more accurate and reliable location tracking.
SIMDual Nano SIMDual Nano SIM+eSIMThe iPhone 13 supports eSIM for more flexible connectivity options.

Storage

FeatureMotorola Moto G 5GApple iPhone 13Practical Impact
Internal64 GB or 128 GB128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GBThe iPhone 13 provides more storage options, which is essential for users who store large quantities of photos, videos, and apps.
RAM4 GB or 6 GB4 GBThe Moto G 5G has a slightly larger RAM option, potentially offering smoother multitasking for users running a lot of apps concurrently.
ExpandableNoNoNeither phone allows for expandable storage, so users must rely solely on the internal storage.

Audio

FeatureMotorola Moto G 5GApple iPhone 13Practical Impact
Quality2 microphonesDolby Atmos, Dolby Digital Plus, DTS / DTS X, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers, 3 microphonesThe iPhone 13 has superior audio features for media consumption and clearer phone calls

Security

FeatureMotorola Moto G 5GApple iPhone 13Practical Impact
FeaturesRear-mounted fingerprint sensorBasic Security FeaturesThe Moto G 5G includes a fingerprint sensor for easier access to the device. The iPhone 13 uses facial recognition for device security.

Sensors

FeatureMotorola Moto G 5GApple iPhone 13Practical Impact
SensorsFingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, GyroscopeProximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, BarometerThe iPhone 13 has a barometer, which can provide more accurate altitude readings. The Moto G 5G features a compass and fingerprint sensor.

2. Key Differences Analysis

Motorola Moto G 5G Advantages:

  • Larger Screen: The 6.7" display is better for media consumption, web browsing, and multitasking.
  • Larger Battery: The 5000mAh battery could provide longer usage times between charges.
  • Dedicated Macro Lens: Offers close-up photography capabilities.
  • Fingerprint Sensor: Provides an alternative way to unlock the device.
  • Potentially More Affordable: Usually positioned as a mid-range device with a lower price.
  • Newer Bluetooth Version: Bluetooth 5.1 LE for potentially better connectivity.
  • Higher RAM option: Up to 6GB of RAM for more multitasking.
  • Dual SIM capability: Supports using two SIM cards simultaneously.

Apple iPhone 13 Advantages:

  • Superior Display: OLED technology with higher brightness, resolution, and pixel density results in a much better viewing experience.
  • Significantly Faster Performance: The A15 Bionic chip provides a much more responsive experience.
  • Better Camera System: Larger sensor pixels, advanced video features with OIS and better dynamic range result in significantly superior image and video quality.
  • MagSafe and Wireless Charging: Offers convenient wireless charging with a magnetic attachment.
  • Better Software Support: iOS provides frequent updates and a smoother overall experience with a longer software support lifecycle.
  • Better Audio: Includes Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital Plus, DTS / DTS X, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers, 3 microphones for significantly better sound quality.
  • eSIM Support: Offers more flexible connectivity options.
  • Newer Wi-Fi standard: Wi-Fi 6 for improved network performance.
  • More Storage Options: Available with up to 512GB of internal storage.

Significant Trade-offs:

  • Motorola Moto G 5G: While having a larger battery and screen, it has a slower processor, a less impressive display, and an inferior camera system compared to the iPhone 13.
  • Apple iPhone 13: It lacks a macro lens, and has a smaller battery.

3. User Profiles & Recommendations

Motorola Moto G 5G - Ideal User:

  • Budget-Conscious Users: Seeking a large screen and long battery life without breaking the bank.
  • Media Consumers: Users who primarily use their phone for watching videos and browsing content.
  • Users wanting a larger screen: Those who prioritize a bigger display over the overall performance and camera capabilities.
  • Users needing dual SIM card support: Those who want to use two SIM cards in one phone.
  • Users who want basic fingerprint sensor security: Those who want an alternative way to unlock the device.

Use Cases:

  • Daily media consumption (YouTube, Netflix)
  • Casual gaming
  • Social media browsing
  • Long battery life needs.

Apple iPhone 13 - Ideal User:

  • Power Users: Seeking top-tier performance for demanding tasks.
  • Photography Enthusiasts: Prioritizing camera quality, advanced video recording features, and editing capabilities.
  • Ecosystem Users: Fully invested in the Apple ecosystem.
  • Users Seeking Long-Term Software Support: Preferring an extended period of software updates and security patches.
  • Users that value portability: Those who prioritize a more compact and lightweight phone.

Use Cases:

  • Professional photography and videography
  • Mobile gaming
  • Video editing
  • Seamless ecosystem integration
  • Heavy multitasking
  • Users that want the best sound quality for music listening.

4. Decision Framework

Consider these key questions to decide which phone fits you:

  1. What is your budget? The Moto G 5G is likely more affordable, whereas the iPhone 13 is premium and comes with a higher price tag.
  2. What do you prioritize most? If performance, camera quality, and display are most important, the iPhone 13 is the better option. If long battery life and a larger screen are higher priorities, the Moto G 5G might be a better fit for you.
  3. Which ecosystem do you prefer? If you are already an iOS user or plan to use other Apple products, the iPhone 13 offers better integration and continuity. If you value Android's flexibility, then the Moto G 5G is your choice.

Scenario-Based Recommendations

  • Scenario 1: Casual User: Needs basic functions, some video watching, and browsing: The Moto G 5G could be adequate, especially for a budget-conscious user who prioritizes a larger screen.
  • Scenario 2: Photography Buff: Wants to capture high-quality photos and videos: The iPhone 13 is far better, offering superior image quality, video capabilities, and advanced features.
  • Scenario 3: Mobile Gamer: Needs excellent performance for smooth gameplay: The iPhone 13 provides a much better experience with its powerful processor and GPU.
  • Scenario 4: Power User: Needs robust performance, seamless multitasking, and ecosystem integration: The iPhone 13 is the clear winner due to its advanced hardware and software.
  • Scenario 5: Budget-conscious User needing long battery: The Moto G 5G is ideal for you.

My Choice and Why

Personally, I would choose the Apple iPhone 13. While the Motorola Moto G 5G has its merits, especially its larger battery and screen, the iPhone 13 provides a superior user experience in nearly every other aspect. The dramatically better display, significantly faster performance, far superior camera system, refined iOS experience, and long-term software support make it the clear choice for me. As someone who values photography, performance, and a seamless user experience, the iPhone 13 offers a significantly higher return on investment, despite the higher upfront cost. The inclusion of features like MagSafe charging, better audio, and a higher quality build add further to its value. The trade-off with a smaller battery is acceptable because I prioritize the benefits I receive with the other features that the iPhone 13 offers.

Emily Harper
Emily Harper

Technology Insights Specialist

Dedicated technology writer specializing in mobile device analysis and technology communication. Expert at translating complex smartphone features into clear, actionable insights for diverse audiences.

Key Strengths:

  • Mobile technology analysis
  • Digital media communication
  • Technical storytelling
  • User-centric technology insights

Bridging technical complexity with engaging, accessible narratives.